Turrialba Surroundings

CATIE (Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza) is an important tropical agricultural research and education center recognized by agronomists around the world. The extensive facilities include a large library of tropical agricultural literature, teaching and research facilities, a laboratory, dairy, greenhouses, herbarium, a seed banks and experimental forest, fruit and vegetable plots.

A walk through the grounds features a small lake where water-birds such as the purple gallinule can be spotted. Another trail leading to the Reventazón River also presents good birding opportunities.

The Reventazón River is one of the most scenic and exciting rivers in Costa Rica, some areas offering Class III and IV white water. The river flows from the (artificial) Cachí Lake at 1,000m/3,280ft above sea level down throughout the eastern mountain slopes to the Caribbean lowlands.

This river is a favorite among rafters and kayakers. Apart from the white water sections, there are other flat and placid sections perfect for beginners. The river receives a lot of rainfall so the river can be run year round, however the best months are June and July.

This serpentarium features a variety of Costa Rican snakes including some unusual albino specimens. Several large boas are also on display.